Tired of bland jarred sauces? Craving the taste of homemade goodness without the endless simmering? Then this recipe for freezer-friendly tomato sauce is perfect for you! This easy recipe delivers rich, vibrant flavor that's ready to elevate your pasta nights, pizzas, and more. It’s a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire, offering a delicious and healthy meal option perfect for busy weeknights. Get ready to transform your pantry with this simple, yet incredibly satisfying, quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and roughly chopped (Roma or San Marzano are ideal)
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundational flavor of your sauce.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Add the chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become. This slow cooking process is key to developing a deep and delicious tomato sauce.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce directly in the pot. Alternatively, carefully transfer the sauce to a regular blender and puree until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
Step 5: Cool and Freeze
Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Leave about an inch of headspace at the top of each container to allow for expansion during freezing. Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the garlic.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
- Fresh herbs: Substitute fresh oregano and basil for a more intense herbal taste. Use about twice the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the sugar accordingly to your preference.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 2g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy tomato sauce recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy meals made simple. Its versatility makes it a staple in any kitchen. Enjoy the convenience of having homemade goodness ready in your freezer whenever you need a quick and flavorful meal! It's truly one of the best recipes for busy cooks who appreciate homemade flavor. Freeze a batch today and savor the taste of homemade comfort any day of the week.